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Thirumurugan Temple in Tawau (Sabah, Malaysia), launched in 1967, reportedly organized elaborate Kumbaahisegam ceremony recently after about a yearlong renovation costing RM 950,000, followed by 24 days of Mandalaabhishegam prayers.

Besides Sabah; hundreds of devotees from Sarawak, West Malaysia, Labuan and Brunei also participated in the ceremonies conducted by 13 priests. K. Sathaya, 73, said to be the founder of the temple, was a special guest, reports suggest.

Malaysian and Sabah governments partially funded the renovation and other funding came from community donations and temple funds. Ceremonies included special prayers for harmony and peace in Malaysia and Sabah, reports add.

Meanwhile, distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, applauded efforts of temple-project leaders and area community to realize this temple renovation and Kumbaahisegam.

Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, further said that it was important to pass on Hindu spirituality, concepts and traditions to coming generations amidst so many distractions in the consumerist society and hoped that this 46-years old temple would focus in this direction. Zed stressed that instead of running after materialism; we should focus on inner search and realization of Self and work towards achieving moksh (liberation), which was the goal of Hinduism.

Tawau, near the Indonesian border, is called "cocoa capital of Asia" and the area is known for Proboscis monkeys. Ismail Mayakob is Majlis President. S.Nokiah is Chairman of the Tawau Indian Hindu Temple Association.